Edge effects – the dreaded yield reduction around the edges of your grow. The problem can dig a little deeper than just the edges. With an overly zealous air duct or misplaced fan, even plants in the middle of your grow can be negatively impacted.
During a recent study in a grow room, we witnessed a significant yield reduction in the corners of the room. In addition to being edge plants, a few of them were extremely close to the HVAC duct. The plants were getting pummeled by extremely dry air and heavy wind currents. While measuring soil moisture, we realized they were 10 to 15% dryer than the middle plants. With a timer-based solution or manual feeds, they received minimal corrections and continued to struggle.
After equipping the plants with our sensors and automated hydroponic solution, each plant was able to receive exactly what it needed. Using real-time information, we documented the faster drying rates and watched the system automatically compensate for the drying rate. The data proved the edge plants were receiving the nutrient solution they needed to offset the dryer, more aggressive wind. After a couple of weeks, they looked just as healthy as the plants in the middle of the room. For plants in the middle of the room being pummeled by a different duct, they also looked significantly healthier.
Personalized plant care through the use of technology just became the new reality! So do we really need to just accept “edge effects”? Is it possible that just a simple change in hydroponic equipment can offset the decreased yield? Stay tuned for the results.
If you’re interested in higher yields with less stress, give us a shout! We’d love to help you overcome your challenges.
